How To Unclog a Heater Core

How To Unclog a Heater Core - EricTheCarGuy

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14 жыл бұрын

Heater problems in the winter suck. But with a little diagnosis you can usually figure out the problem. Heater cores can get clogged from time to time and this video presents a solution to that problem should you have it. BTW, the product used in the video was CLR. If you KNOW you have a clogged heater core this procedure is a good thing to try to help fix the problem. However, if you are having heating problems I would suggest you check for air in the cooling system first before performing this procedure. The #1 cause of heating problems is actually air in the cooling system. More information on how to deal with HVAC issues can be found in this article I wrote.
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Stay Dirty
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Due to factors beyond the control of EricTheCarGuy, it cannot guarantee against unauthorized modifications of this information, or improper use of this information. EricTheCarGuy assumes no liability for property damage or injury incurred as a result of any of the information contained in this video. EricTheCarGuy recommends safe practices when working with power tools, automotive lifts, lifting tools, jack stands, electrical equipment, blunt instruments, chemicals, lubricants, or any other tools or equipment seen or implied in this video. Due to factors beyond the control of EricTheCarGuy, no information contained in this video shall create any express or implied warranty or guarantee of any particular result. Any injury, damage or loss that may result from improper use of these tools, equipment, or the information contained in this video is the sole responsibility of the user and not EricTheCarGuy.

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@labradormcgraw2409 7 жыл бұрын

This is why Eric's so popular on KZfaq. He doesn't edit his vids to exclude any mishaps; we get to see everything - including the mistakes we all make. It also adds humanity to the channel - huge respect to Eric The Car Guy!

@russellpicco647 Жыл бұрын

Greatest way to blow out the little veins in that tiny itty bitty little heater core you know what I did Brother I literally ran a garden hose to my hot water heater cuz my garage is next to my house I Put A fitting on it and I had a valve on the hose where I could adjust the pressure I got it hot and then I screwed it to the heater hose and like you said I back flushed it backwards too and you wouldn't believe the rest that came out of there it was red literally red and it worked

@larryboyd7862 6 ай бұрын

My car blow hot heat through the defrost by the water but blow cold through the Vince what is it blow hot up top cold what do you think is the hose backwards going to the heater heater core

@cameronkrider5341 3 жыл бұрын

Thanks Eric. I have tried to reverse flush my heater core about 4 times over the last two years. I even used compressed air. It didn't work. I used your "certain product" and let it soak for about an hour before flushing out the heater core and now finally, after two very cold winters, I have HEAT once again.!!! Thanks for all your videos.

@eneb8937 2 жыл бұрын

So what's the certain product? I keep watching and can't figure it out. Thanks

@cameronkrider5341 2 жыл бұрын

@@eneb8937 CLR

@eneb8937 2 жыл бұрын

@@cameronkrider5341 thanks

@kenwilks6289 7 жыл бұрын

Thanks for this Eric! My son's 2000 Mitsubishi Eclipse was blowing cold air. I could hear the blend door moving, so I figured it had to be the heater core. That little trick with compressed air worked like a charm. I used duct tape instead, but I split it in half, so it was about the width of electrical tape. It also had a 170F thermostat, so I switched it back the the OEM recommended 180F. We have heat now.

@covinaca5312 4 жыл бұрын

Ten years after this video was posted I used this method to fix my heater. I even spayed myself with dirty antifreeze. Thumbs up for saving me money !

@wapman66 10 жыл бұрын

You are my new favorite subscription. Thanks for being informative and entertaining. Seeing that you don't mind showing the slightly embarrassing stuff, is a testament to your character... sir. So you know, I checked out this video because of a recommendation from Todd Harrison. And I will highly recommend your videos to anyone else that is looking for automotive tutorials... and stay dirty.

@Odaskills 4 жыл бұрын

Wow, thanks jave 2006 Chevy Equinox doing the same changed, pump, thermostat and heater sensor still no heat....

@vickialbanese2835 4 жыл бұрын

wapman66 Eric is informative and being that I am a woman it’s great to be able to watch and learn something I can do without a mans help if I need too. I’m 62 and love this stuff. I wish I had more tools though!

@DENicholsAutoBravado 10 жыл бұрын

I came back to watch this video again. When I am worn out and tired, and feel that I have no need to learn I go back to an easy car subject, or to a video that I've already seen. You see, repetition is the key to learning. I love cars, so repetition doesn't bother me. EVERY time I come back and rewatch a video by this gentleman, I still manage to learn something. It isn't a waist of time like a rerun on television. :) Ericthecarguy is one of my mechanic mentors. There are few that I hold in as high as regard as him. It's impossible for any mechanic to make one video on one subject and cover everything there is to know. Eric is quite thorough, but I do enjoy my other mentors on the same subject, because every mechanic has a different way of fixing something. Even if it's mostly the same, it's still worth while. If you only know one way to fix something....what if it didn't work? Now you're stuck. All of my repairs that I've done before this video study, have dropped down to 1/3 of the time that I needed before. If it's a repair I do regularly even better. New jobs take 1/2 to 2/3 of the time that I took in the past. In fact, I took him so seriously on my first run through of this that I was oblivious to the rich humor in this video! :) So funny!

@DENicholsAutoBravado 9 жыл бұрын

***** I'm glad we're both inspired by good videos like this. And as for not laughing during the video...it's a frequent personal fault. I'm always working to see humor now and can make some customers laugh all day long because of this. lol My personal default is serious, but I'm glad I've learned to stretch. :) Glad I helped you laugh too.

@bizzysmiley 9 жыл бұрын

***** u

@charleswilson4598 6 жыл бұрын

I couldn't agree more. I started helping my Dad work on his cars in the late 40's and 50's. He was a very good mechanic, then started working on my own cars when I got older. No you tube in those days. In fact no computers either. When I started turning old you tube showed up and I have found it invaluable for looking at car repairs. I talked to a mechanic at a local repair shop ( a good one ) and those guys are aware of you tube and use it also. I replaced the intake manifold on my '01 F150 a while back and I never would have attempted it until I found this great video on you tube showing in detail what I needed to know. So, hurrah for Eric and guys like him who are willing to spend the time to show us how they do things.

@tmartin67 4 жыл бұрын

Thanks for the idea of using air to reverse flush the heater core. I used water before and had no luck. I used air, then filled with water and reverse flush with air for an entire gallon. Then the CLR, and reversed flush with air again, and did another gallon of water. I did this entire process three times. Then ran water reverse through so much easier. It just flowed! I now have heat in my car that I have not had for the entire three years I have owned the Jeep. Thanks again Eric!

@deangeorge4982 6 жыл бұрын

I have been on several DIY auto projects over the past 2 years. I haven't done this kind of work in 30 years. I have found that you have been the best at step by step instructions on the part(S) I am working on. I am going to try this on my 98 Honda Accord heater core as it barely puts out heat. I will post another comment once I am done. Thanks Car Guy!

@ellenmcgarry6722 10 жыл бұрын

I love the fact the you are human not a guy who pretends to be perfect. You show that all does not always go perfectly...Thank you...I will continue to follow your posts!!

@vanrijn1669 3 жыл бұрын

Following your great site for years. Thanks for showing us shade tree DIYers how things get done. Appreciate the fact you show us how things can go wrong since most of us have this happen even with our best efforts to avoid it. Thanks.

@Xtian62 5 жыл бұрын

Eric, you just saved me many hours of work, and potentially many hundreds of $. Thank you for this. My 21 year old Honda CR-V now has heat, where it didn't before. I built a little rig with a valve and a pressure regulator for the compressed air. Worked like a charm. Thanks again.

@bigshortstack2929 5 жыл бұрын

Eric, instead or CLR, use Brake Clean. Disconnect the hoses from the core; connect a hose to the bottom core nipple that is long enough to hang down below the engine and into a catch container. Then, spray the Brake Clean into the other nipple until the core is pukeing out nothing but the brake cleaner. This may take a couple of cans of the cleaner, but is definitely "cleaner" to use and less messy. This technique is very good for cleaning out AC lines, cores, condensers, etc.

@oftgood 10 жыл бұрын

Thank you for showing your mistakes. It is nice to see the little hick-ups to avoid them. This is really helpful.

@freeheeler09 3 жыл бұрын

Yep, thanks for the humor and honesty! The bloopers make your video. Also, the rest of it was instructive.

@tullycw6453 5 жыл бұрын

This video was perfect, informative and entertaining. This fixed my 1999 Grand Cherokees heat issue. I also got a face full of antifreeze! Thank you so much!

@flyby1807 4 жыл бұрын

Thanks Eric, I had the same idea of using air pressure instead of water pressure on my Corolla but wasn't 100% sure. Now that I saw your video, I am more incouraged to give it a try. Thanks for all your videos. They have helped me a great deal.

@rondie.x53 6 жыл бұрын

Loved it. I am 65 and still fix my own car because of people like you . Thankyou

@perry9251 3 жыл бұрын

Another great video from Eric. I enjoy his videos a lot. He is humble, honest and keeps it simple. And kind of funny. My opinion, he's the best on you tube.

@shanereimer133 2 жыл бұрын

Eric did you expect 12 years ago to be as popular as you are now? Amazing video, excellent information, and you do great work.

@667crash 4 жыл бұрын

Thanks to Eric The Car Guy!! I generally followed the process that you laid out with minor exceptions? I cut the supply and return heater hoses and bonded them together with a 5/8-inch splice so I could drive the car. I attempted to blow out the heater core and encountered significant resistance! OK!! I filled the heater core with CLR and waited 2-hours. I attached a female garden hose end to the return side hose leading to the heater core and drove to the local auto parts store where they have an exterior hose with 60-PSI water pressure. Turned on the water with a fairly instantaneous rush of water from the heater core that wasn't as dramatic as I had anticipated relative to color, but the volume was seriously dramatic. Put it all back together and how the heater works GREAT!! I seriously recommend following this guys general process. THANKS

@jeffmorga7111 2 жыл бұрын

A friend's shop, he has these old style fixtures.. Air and water at the same time.. Turn valve for the water, squeeze valve for the air.. The old school way to flush the engine coolant.. When you get the system flushed there.. It's flushed.. This guy ( in the video ) is doing GREAT WORK.. Not everyone cares about their work.. I can tell.. He's one of the best.. If you're in central DELAWARE Capital AIR conditioning and radiator.. Dover DELAWARE.. Another one of the very best.. No short cuts, the REAL DEAL..

@andrewholtsclaw7822 5 жыл бұрын

I know this is a comment on an old video, but I love the idea of spraying silicon on the hose to help the clamps. Brilliant! Also, safety glasses Eric; safety glasses. Getting that stuff in the eyes is NOT FUN. It only took me one time, and now I won't touch a potentially splashing fluid without 'em.

@7jack7 6 жыл бұрын

Thanks for the great vid. You might try incorporating a blow gun into the operation. It allows a lot more control of the air over a pair of vice grips. Shouldn't be too hard to adapt it to the heater hose.

@amazingmrtitts 4 жыл бұрын

Loved this video, I didn’t even think about cleaning the heater core. I’m gonna try this, cause changing the core in an 85 Toyota is a half day job and it’s 18 degrees outside. Thanks for taking the time to share.

@timothytate3968 Жыл бұрын

Thanks Eric for putting this video out to show how to flush out a heater core. My heater is blowing out cold air and everything is working. But the top heater hose is cool to the touch but the bottom heater core is hot so that little tip that you gave as an indication that your heater core is plugged up is a great tip so that explains to me that I may need to flush my heater core out. And then see if I get hot heat coming blowing through my heat vents. Again thanks for putting this video out you gave really good tips.

@MiltonNGreeneIII 6 жыл бұрын

Great video. Thanks for keeping it real. It's not always done flawlessly. Also, thanks for caring about the environment.

@TuffGirlBuilder 10 жыл бұрын

I am always inspired to do my own diagnostics & maintenance after your detailed tutorials. Keep it up, appreciated!

@Whitewolf1023 4 жыл бұрын

Thanks for this video, very helpful. I haven't tried cleaning my heater core yet, but will definitely get after it at my earliest convenience. I'll email you with additional questions, thanks again!

@JohnDoe-uq3mx 7 жыл бұрын

Had my own temporary fix in early January weather when temps were near zero. Did it when no air compressor, heated garage, or garden hose were available. Switched the inlet and outlet hoses in reverse, and it was good for about a month and a half until the weather started to break.

@dondesnoo1771 6 жыл бұрын

John Doe used to reverse each year seemed to work easy remedy good idea to flush too entire system😎

@jdrs4214 8 жыл бұрын

Eric, I have the highest respect for you man!!!! Thank you!!!!

@sandramurphy9152 9 жыл бұрын

Thanks for the video, love how real they are and that you can laugh at yourself! Now we need to go and work on this!

@reddwarf60 6 жыл бұрын

Thanks for the vid Eric! Suggestion: Get an inexpensive ball valve with a 90 degree throw lever (like you probably have plumbed elsewhere in your shop air system) and screw an air hose QD fitting in one end and an appropriately-sized hose (singe barb) fitting in the other to create a "friendlier" throttle for your compressed air. Also: On later model cars a clogged cabin air filter can greatly reduce air flow over the heater core or AC evaporator, significantly diminishing the system output into the cabin. Enough that it can throw off the pressure reading on your AC manifold gauge set. Stay Dirty indeed!

@slock23 5 жыл бұрын

This was such a help! I paid to have my cooling system flushed twice because my heat stopped working. Finally I did exactly these steps - I used a cooling system flushed and clean product from Advance Auto and let it sit in the heater core for 10 minutes. I blew out the product with a compressor catching it in my garden spray container. There were giant clumps of rust that blew out, and now my heat works for the first time in two years!!!

@cindymorris913 9 жыл бұрын

i'm a single parent with no money to waste, i love the way you help compromise on tools and technique without spending alot. your videos are very easy to understand. thank you.

@allianceofsteel 9 жыл бұрын

I've personally developed a method for using CLR to "rott" out cooling systems. I've done it on several with amazing results, I drain everything out, flush with water until you only have water in it, fill it up with a jug of clr, top it off distilled water, drive it around a couple days, drain it, flush it completely out and I do mean completely out, you don't want any clr left in the system when you are done, refill with distilled water and antifreeze. You might ask me why distilled water, well I started using it because the water here is so mineralized, I was changing out thermostats that literally had rocks growing on them from the mineral content of the water... that stuff can block wherever the coolant slows down or cools down in the system. Over kill but... how I do it and have done it for ages now. Awesome video, I've had my share of mouthfuls, facefuls, hairfuls of antifreeze.... *thumbs up*

@Krankie_V 9 жыл бұрын

Not to mention the chlorine in most municipal water supplies has a tendency to accelerate corrosion in cooling systems. Distilled water is always a good idea

@richardgonzales3226 6 жыл бұрын

You don't want CLR going threw your coolant system I wouldn't run it through the whole system just heater core

@nicholas8nj 5 жыл бұрын

Thanks for the advice. I didn't flush out engine core but tried to squeeze the hose to get rid of bubbles

@barryellis6663 5 жыл бұрын

I know what you mean a out hard water. I live in Oklahoma and some of these small towns have rocks coming out of their faucets.

@jcblur311 Жыл бұрын

You the man Eric. I had no heat in my ride for the last two winters. Granted I'm in a southern part of the country where it almost never snows, and it gets below freezing maybe 30 days out of the year, but it still sucked having to bundle up and wear winter gloves when driving. I was just about to bite the bullet and buy/install a new heater core, when I came across this video. Thanks man. Keep up the great work.

@RawSauce338 Жыл бұрын

Did flushing it work?

@eddienolan4631 6 жыл бұрын

Eddie NolanThank you very much Eric for helping me as well as others and explaining detailed repair. I had the same problem with my son’s car. I have used your advice many times resolving problems and thanks again.

@pyite100 9 жыл бұрын

Thank you for this video. I was able to unclog my heater core and now I have heat again!! And the total cost was $0 (assuming my time is worth $0)

@gomeztimothy11 5 жыл бұрын

Suggestion? Wouldn't a pressure regulator help with throttling the air and be a little safer to control? Also, pumps only put out about 10 lbs of pressure, give or take, so it would be advisable to control the amount if air to around that pressure.

@charleswilson4598 6 жыл бұрын

Good video as always. I don't have a very big air compressor but I think after seeing this video I would just adjust the line pressure to low pressure to begin with and then adjust up as necessary.

@dulynoted2427 6 жыл бұрын

You got my thumbs up for good work ethics. Thank you for keeping our water ways free of toxic chemicals!

@tweeter05ify 2 жыл бұрын

This guy is legit 100% all the BS plus the knowledge and level headed thank you for sharing these videos and info with all of us really appreciate it 👍

@pdubs2k10 10 жыл бұрын

HAHAHAHA! Eric...you rock! Love this video! Actually...I am having the EXACT same problem as described in my 2001 Caravan SE (Shorty). This past weekend, I replaced the thermostat (thinking that was the problem) and did a flush and fill. Of course (my luck), that didn't fix it. So I determined with the help of my buddy (since I'm more of a techy guy and not a mechanic) that the problem was most likely a blockage in the heater core. I was scared to even attempt this and had succumbed to just hiring out, as my dad always did. After watching this....I think I can handle it (under the close eye and guidance of my buddy). Thanks for doing what you do!

@Stuffie0117 7 жыл бұрын

I have been having issues with my liberty and I'm gonna try this soon and see if I have my heat for winter back

@warriorrod2382 5 жыл бұрын

Worked like a charm, heat once again, 2007 Mini Cooper r56 s. Unhooked the heater core hoses from the thermostat housing. Bleeding the system after a flush is very important. Thanks for the third time!

@hectordeanda9133 4 жыл бұрын

Would you recommend flushing the whole cooling system with CLR if there’s rust throughout the cooling system? Any reprocussions?

@traciemahoney6989 8 жыл бұрын

You're ideas as usual are VERY helpful, but I did LMFAO! Thank you for leaving that in. I don't feel like such an idiot knowing it happens to other mechanics too! Keep 'em coming!!

@tworthit8265 5 жыл бұрын

Love the videos. Very down to earth, practical, logical, and a little humor. I know it takes time to make vids. Appreciate it.

@blackbear4903 5 ай бұрын

Just tried this method today on my 1995 GMC Sierra. Just as disgusting as the video but I ended up with heat in the old girl! So glad I found this video. Had some pretty miserable mornings with frozen windshields. This was a game changer.

@peterdiamant164 10 жыл бұрын

Hey Eric, you can also use a valve stem and an air chuck to blow out the heater core. Diamant Motors, Toronto Canada.

@danseman1 10 жыл бұрын

Entertaining video. The coolant splash was funny. We've all had similar experiences. That product, I believe CRC?? may be caustic??..Simple household white vinegar works great for cleaning a variety of things and won't harm you. And it's cheaper.

@zackman191 10 жыл бұрын

CLR

@HumboldtNonProfit 5 жыл бұрын

I believe the vinegar needs to be heated to work. It is a chemical reaction combined with the heat that cleans. There was no heat in this method so the vinegar wouldn't work. I am not sure about the CLR, I have two bottles, but am afraid of using it. It turns into a very thick white cream that looks like it would be difficult to flush out? Also may be really bad for aluminum parts...

@johnquinones1854 5 жыл бұрын

Breakin

@garrydonnelly6433 3 жыл бұрын

@@HumboldtNonProfit CLR will damage aluminium so don't use hit here.

@cheeko_914 2 жыл бұрын

CRC is a brand

@miclfolu2 6 жыл бұрын

Eric you save the day again! As many videos I have seen flushing out a heater core process. I've sound your process seems to be a lot more practical and less time consuming then all the videos I have seen.. Thanks again for all your help.

@miclfolu2 6 жыл бұрын

Sorry about that had (Never Correct) on.. Found..

@stanmorton8975 8 ай бұрын

we knew what you meant....@@miclfolu2

@chrisk5142 4 жыл бұрын

Eric, great video!! My kids 1999 ford contour isn't blowing heat. So I'm going to try this. Thank you for the help. Chris

@HeavyChevyAZ105 7 жыл бұрын

DUDE!!! thank you so much! I just tried this on my 01 Chevy Tahoe. it absolutely works now my heater is blowing hot. thank you so much I was about to replace the heater core. and on my model of truck you have to remove the entire Dash to get to it thank God for you and this video saving me two days work!!

@ChellyinCali25 10 жыл бұрын

Hello Eric!!!! This has been the most useful video I have watched on youtube. I have gone three winters now with no heater because the shop I took my car into said that flushing my heater core did not work and that I would need to replace the heater core. I came across your video and your steps made it look pretty easy so decided I could try this before taking it in.. and it worked! Thank you =]

@princeboateng694 6 жыл бұрын

Chelly Sohn do not trust a fucking mechanic you don't know. Like you said they said that they flushed the heater core and it did not work so they can buy you and a new heater core and replace it and I know that shut is expensive since they gotta pull out almost your whole dash in the front. They wanna make a quick buck from people that don't know. I went to pep boys for a wheel alignment they came out with a list of bs but the most funny one was they said I needed new brake pads and rotors in order for them to do the alignment funny because I myself changed those items two months before taking my car there for the alignment. Crooks I tell you.

@TheAttacker732 4 жыл бұрын

@@princeboateng694 The mechanic I had flush my coolant & replace my thermostat told me I needed a new heater core, (at one point it was a bit low on coolant, and I think the universal that my dad put in permanently gunked it) but his shop is too small to do it. (My Ram 1500 barely fit through the door for his 2 bay garage, small shop) However, he also didn't know any shops with enough floor room to do it either. Basically, "Look, you need it done, but you're on your own finding someone who can do it."

@neilperko8882 7 жыл бұрын

thanks for sharing this.. fixed mine thanks to this video. I probably would have done the dreadful job of changing the heater core if I hadn't learned about this. you saved me a LOT of time. thanks

@miked8234 6 жыл бұрын

I followed his instructions and it worked. I cut the heater hose up by the core and hooked up a compressor that I rented from Home Depot for $30. I diluted the CLR just a little before pouring it in. I spliced the hose back together using a 5/8" dual plastic connector I bought from Pep Boys. It was a messy job, but the car has great heat and the heater core isn't leaking. I think it all cost me $80. The shops said I may have needed a new heater core installed for $1,000. I'm happy.

@anomysafad803 8 жыл бұрын

Big point of this video is change your dam anti freeze, so you don't gunk up your heater core! Preventive maintenance.

@python178 8 жыл бұрын

+anomy safad exactly

@mohammedalhaiby7038 8 жыл бұрын

+Bruce B فات

@8jallin97 8 жыл бұрын

+anomy safad I have no worries, I use water.

@TheBikemaster94 8 жыл бұрын

I used sealant to fix the water pump leax and it clogged the heater core.

@johnferguson7235 8 жыл бұрын

+TheBikemaster94 You must have tried using a very large amount of sealant. There shouldn't be a great problem sealing the pump using the correct gasket and torquing the bolt to the correct spec. Water pumps are cheap. I bet that you will buy one next time. Sorry to hear that you made a boo boo and messed up your car.

@jackiechan6460 7 жыл бұрын

My cat died because it drank coolant. My older brother was working on his car, dropped a bunch of coolant on the ground. I didn't think anything of it besides of how it may stain or how messy it looked. At that point I knew nothing about cars. Later that day I find my beloved cat dead in the yard. Her eyes hazed over with a silver color. In disbelief I shook her around a bit, trying to get her to move. She didn't. Found a shovel, carried her over, dug a hole, and buried her. Don't let this happen to your animals. I got pretty emotional writing this. Her name was Grimlin. Had a very unique meow and flatish head. Extremely friendly and loyal. Which is strange for a cat it seems. Never ran from me. I called her hamburger head because of how flat her head was, and she used to nap with me on warm sunny days. I used to wake up to her licking my head which turned a small part of my hair into a cowlick. I miss my cat now.

@kjamison5951 5 жыл бұрын

JacksTip It’s the sweet taste that animals pick up. That’s a crying shame. I am sorry to hear about your loss. We have lost several cats over the years to old age. It’s still a huge wrench on your emotions because you really connect with them. Keep hold of the happy memories to give you strength.

@bertdemeule4802 5 жыл бұрын

JacksTip 1

@bertdemeule4802 5 жыл бұрын

MatchstalkMa

@Laggin6 5 жыл бұрын

My condolences to you. How sad to lose a pet that way.

@benjaminjohnson8431 5 жыл бұрын

Lost a pet to antifreeze also. But was a neighbor. Who knows whether it was intentional.

@lindseyjones4290 5 жыл бұрын

Thanks Eric. I have a 4x4 Mitsubishi Challenger who's heat has stopped. I will definitely be working with your method of flushing the core.

@BulletProofBreast 4 жыл бұрын

I'm impressed because I did almost all of these steps myself without looking anything up first (even the flooring). Only thing I didn't think of was to reverse flow (kinda important)

@ryanabalos1163 5 жыл бұрын

"stay dirty, work clean!" I like that. Ryan A

@stacimcclendon3907 7 жыл бұрын

I've got to change my heater core...but this was hilarious to watch! Thanks!

@flinch622 4 жыл бұрын

Hope it went well. My comment is way late, but every once in a while hoses can delaminate internally [if they are multi layer] and block their own flow. A leak or complete failure usually is right behind such an event since mechanical structure is weak, and blisters sometimes form in the outer jacket. It's kind of rare, but since hoses are relatively cheap... I check them first. An internal flap may behave like a check valve when testing: flows ok one way, but not the other. Air works for testing, but you need to regulate pressure down to near normal operating pressures. Speaking of regulators, I hope one of Eric's friends buys him one for christmas - 120psi gives a faceful (or worse) when things are opened up. Nothing like a faceful when it's winter...

@willlee2332 8 ай бұрын

I thought about doing this because replacing the heater core in a 2009 Ford Explorer is a HUGE undertaking and mine didn't leak. I'm glad Eric did it because it made me think it would work - and it DID! I would have gotten rid of the car before replacing the heater core, so Eric saved my car - LOL! Thanks for posting this.

@mytube3662 3 жыл бұрын

Eric great video it's not often that I need heat here in Florida but I'm needing to do this myself to my F150 that has no heat. Thanks for the helpful video. PS I think I will put a clamp on the hose where the electrical tape was use a zip tie on the hose going into the bottle and use a 3/8" ball valve I have laying around here to avoid the face full of coolant. Live and learn, or in this case watch and learn. Thanks

@sonper22 9 жыл бұрын

love your videos but this one just made me laugh... mean that in a good way Eric use your videos aaaalot thanks... had a good laugh. :):)

@juliejcoats2460 3 жыл бұрын

Your video was very informative & really quite entertaining & that's a plus.. Being cute too is a definitely another plus lol Thank You I haven't had any Heat in my Dodge Dakota for over a month..So I will try this tomorrow..

@RocknWithRobin 3 жыл бұрын

Yes

@TimSaundersC4 10 жыл бұрын

Eric great video. I had my mechanic do the same thing to my Chevrolet uplander and now I have heat. One question is that they told me white stuff came out off the heater core. What could that be?

@doncox2146 4 жыл бұрын

Calcium and lime deposits from hard water

@dewaynemaiden 4 жыл бұрын

@@doncox2146 from using tap water with the antifreeze instead of distilled water

@Lisa-ub6zl 2 жыл бұрын

Thanks so much! I was sitting here cold watching your video and decided to just kick it one time to see if I would get heat anyway and dang if it didn't work! I was so glad to feel some heat on me!

@tomprice9527 3 жыл бұрын

The best how too I have ever watched . Really explained what he was talking about

@asian1erTheDestroyer 8 жыл бұрын

4:45 money shot lol

@ishish9283 4 жыл бұрын

😂😂😂😂

@KiranTaker270 9 жыл бұрын

4:45 Eric's reaction XD

@chrissibennett3931 2 жыл бұрын

Love you Eric! You don't bullshit and you get it figured out. My ex gave our daughter his 02 Honda Accord and he had put head gasket sealant and pepper in the radiator, obviously, later on, it's all plugged up. I was going to buy a new heater core and replace it for her, because he had flushed it with just water a while back, but I'm going to try this to see if I can't save it before buying a new one. Love your resourcefulness! Thanx again :)

@activemonkey7325 4 жыл бұрын

Thanks Eric, I just did this on my 2001 Jeep WJ and holy hell does it blow some heat now. Thank you for posting the video!

@Liberty4Ever 7 жыл бұрын

Most cooling systems run at 15 psi and the heater core won't be rated for much more than that so I would be very careful about using an air compressor unless I had a regulator set to perhaps 25 psi or less which isn't much air pressure. I would just flush it with a garden hose running very slowly. There are flush kits for that. There's also a radiator flushing chemical for $8 that I would use instead of CLR which could corrode the inside of the heater core and cause more problems later.

@bmfilmnut 5 жыл бұрын

Another excellent video. In my opinion, you have some of the best auto repair videos on KZfaq but that's why I''m surprised about a couple things in this video. First, I'm suprised that you turned the air on full blast rather than slowly cranked up the pressure. And you did that more than once. Second, I know you are big on safety but this is an instance where safety glasses were important. I confess that I rarely wear safety glasses when working on cars and truck but I would have in this case. Third, I'm not sure why you often don't show a product name. You can't be sued. It's not a copyright issue. The information would be useful to your viewers and the manufacturer of the product would be glad that you used it. My only guess is that maybe you don't want to take responsibility if it goes bad. In this case, it looked like you were using CLR. I'm wondering if a dilute mixture of vinegar would work. I use it to flush cooling systems before replacing coolant. Other than those things, I wish I had seen this video years ago when I had a plugged heater core in a minivan. The factory procedure was horrendous and involved removing the entire dashboard, etc. That would be necessary with that car if it was leaking but it was just clogged. I'll file your method in my brain for future reference. Thanks much and thanks for posting these helpful videos.

@michaeltyniec7010 3 жыл бұрын

Worked like a charm on my Grand Cherokee. I tried to minimize the mess when using the air compressor - I failed. HAHAHAHA. Thank you so much for your awesome videos!

@GetRealBaby 5 жыл бұрын

Thanks! I like real videos that help explain the right and wrong ways things may go. Thanks again!

@danielalien 9 жыл бұрын

Lol at carefully using the spill-free funnel after previously blasting the entire engine bay with gunky anti-freeze :P

@2028end 5 жыл бұрын

danielalien, hahahah ... that's what I was thinking too! The whole engine looked like a total mess and we're carefully using a spill free funnel. hahahaha

@stevenhorn8682 4 жыл бұрын

When I turn on my heat, it comes out hot on the left side and cool on the right. When I switch to the AC the cold comes out on the right side and cool on the left. Would this be a heater core problem. I checked the actuator and it is working right. I don't have a duel system. Just one knob for the fan, one for the heat and cold and one for the different positions. I did like your video and have now subscribed. Very informative

@brianjirish 4 жыл бұрын

I'm having the same problem. I'm hopping someone with knowledge can pin-point this for us.

@scarface-39 4 жыл бұрын

I know you said the actuator works but it sounds like a blend door issue maybe not opening or closing all the way?

@brianjirish 4 жыл бұрын

@@scarface-39 it was actually one of my actuator. I ended up just replacing all 4 of them. 3 of the 4 are right behind climate control but the 4th one was the hardest. I had to remove the whole dash. It was behind and up above the glove box(reciprocating blend door).

@scarface-39 4 жыл бұрын

brianjirish Glad you got it fixed those things are a pain in the you know what sometimes!

@xjorvis 5 жыл бұрын

Perfect Eric thank you I followed your guide it fixed my heater issue in my 98 jeep Cherokee thank you

@craigburris2133 4 жыл бұрын

You are the man!!! This worked great and now our PT Cruiser has heat again. Thanks for the great video. Well Done!!!

@pennypug97 7 жыл бұрын

I put CLR in my 2000 Ford Ranger heater core and let it sit for an hour. flushed it out a dozen times and hooked up a garden hose which ran freely. still very little Heat

@Persian5word 7 жыл бұрын

make sure you bleed all the air out of the system. each car has bleeder point. also it might be the case that heater control valve doesn't allow full flow even tho is fully open

@sgtpeeper68 7 жыл бұрын

Does your Ranger have a temperature gauge? Have you verified it reaches operating temp after running for a sufficient amount of time? If it doesn't, it might be your thermostat is stuck open. That will cause a reduction in heat output.

@pt324157 5 жыл бұрын

@@Persian5word not every car has a bleeder valve for the coolant usually u need to leave the radiator cap off and warm up the engine till the thermostat opens

@MrPhotodoc 5 жыл бұрын

"David's Farm". Now THAT is old. I think he got removed from YT for some "issues".

@juliantitian1623 2 жыл бұрын

Videos are a bit long but man they’re worth it, I learn something new on every one. My guy!

@ClarVad 6 ай бұрын

Fantastic video. I replaced my thermostat and there was no change. As there are no leaks elsewhere I am convinced that the heater core is clogged. Thanks!!! Will return with update!

@FargenDog 10 жыл бұрын

.... and this is why we wear safety goggles right Eric?

@danneathery3612 10 жыл бұрын

You make a good informative video, but I need to make a point... As a lot of garage & shade tree do it yourselfers are bound to try this, let's not forget SAFETY. Using compressed air without safety glasses is a serious issue. The fact that you are potentially pushing a de-rusting chemical (usually these flushing compounds contain some form of Oxalic acid) at pressure warrants even a step further... full goggles and a face shield. The fact that even you, as an eperienced tecnician, didn't foresee adequately venting the discharge bottle for the volume/pressure of air used, thus blowing this hazardous liquid in your face illustrates my point. A picture is worth a thousand words. You got lucky. It's chuckle funny-funny on TV, but NOT from the ER when they are flushing your eyes out from chemical burn or picking out minute imbedded rust particles with tweezers and a magnet... then comes the dye check for the aluminum residues. MAYBE your sight won't be impaired. I am a Graduate of Skyline Automotive Technology program, a State of Ca. Cert. Journeyman Fleet Equipment Mechanic, fully ASE certified, and have 35+years in the auto/truck/ equipment trade... I offer this advice through experience, not to be disrespectful or flippent. Your methods are sound, but in my time I've watched many people injured by the simplest of oversights. I hope to retire with all my parts intact. So far, so good knock on wood and always vigilant. To EVERYONE... always stop for a second to walk through each next step in your head and ask "what if ?... even from something as simple as repositioning to pull a wrench vs. pushing. Thanks for the ear folks !

@joshcombs7831 6 жыл бұрын

Dan Neathery lighten up Francis...

@TheDickMan_ 6 жыл бұрын

Lol always that fuckin nerd

@Clare.1985 6 жыл бұрын

I know a lot of you are laughing at this guy for saying it and until I started welding I would have been right there with you. I gotta say though. Metal in the eyes is NOT a fun experiment. Neither is any kind of burn. I think i'd rather be pistol whipped than go through that again. Also I don't know about you guys but I really REALLY like being able to see. I'm sure you're buddies would laugh at you doing something simple with a full face shield looking like bill nye the science guy but at least when you're done you can see them laughing at you. Just saying.

@Clare.1985 6 жыл бұрын

1.5 inches if it's warm out.

@TheDickMan_ 6 жыл бұрын

Josh Clare call me when youre at least a 6

@natefidalgo7625 5 жыл бұрын

You and Scott Kilmer are amazing with the videos with a little guidance in some areas i feel i could become a great mechanic i already feel pretty confident on passing any ASE exam one could throw at me probably even the other non A1-8 ,G1,G2 like for trucks , buses, and perhaps even the hybrid ,CNG ,or LPG exams to. Car work its kind of fun a little figuring out the issue/troubleshooting it not so fun all the time fixing it though (depends on location and working alone is good sometimes but not all the times)... I know its narrowed down to a few last components but the engine coolant flushing is the thing up next which i believe will fix the issue for good. The reason why i didn't check fan is the fan comes on fine with ac system and its the fan used for both systems in this model/make car. CTS i was assuming good because instrument panel gage seem to be correct displaying also if odb2 showed a sign i could quickly check a code by bringing it in. And i was told the thermostat was new so there for it must be clog or water pump.... anyway i am at the point of just fixing it or figuring it all out but now got to wait on the fix.

@jakdalton7342 Жыл бұрын

1st video I've seen of you w/out the beard! Going back 13 yrs ago, I can tell you have learned a lot 😊. Thanks for showing us the mistakes we coukd have made. Hope things are going well for you in 2023!

@druno82 9 жыл бұрын

Jeep with a clogged heater core. Imagine that :)

@adnelpandur3357 3 жыл бұрын

Same here dam jeeps lol

@jamiepitts3389 3 жыл бұрын

If only people changed their coolant.... 😆

@Boss-ve8rl 4 жыл бұрын

2019 and the car markers still refuse to make the heater system easier to get to and work on

@johnb9607 4 жыл бұрын

Especially dodges

@jasonhunting7443 Жыл бұрын

Took my 2017 in for the same problem and they quoted me 1900.00 to replace the core. Going to try this fix next weekend. Thanks for this!

@serge1060 Жыл бұрын

Very informative video. It helps me do the job correctly. Thank you Eric!

@hectorcontreras6356 3 жыл бұрын

key takeaway, “try not to damage the hoes” 3:07 and or “hurt them...that much” 4:02

@ashtonmurch2142 6 жыл бұрын

"Tastes like maple syrup" .....*dies*

@fm00078 4 жыл бұрын

THAT Epitaph will be on his Tombstone. 💀

@Obeijin 4 жыл бұрын

Yes , it can kill ...

@Juandrumx Жыл бұрын

Thank you Eric, it helps to watch your video as I'm considering back flush my heater core on my 2004 Ford Exploere

@BigMack2020 9 жыл бұрын

That product is Cough Cough CRL cleaner

@thomassmith3951 7 жыл бұрын

i used a garden hose and a $1.99 nozzle and now i have great heat.

@deangeorge4982 5 жыл бұрын

I did my 98 honda heater core flush using your youtube video. I am glad I did and it works now. Thanks.

@kevinrheault791 6 жыл бұрын

I know you're like a KZfaq celebrity and probably don't read your comments because your really busy. But I thought I had to stop and say thank you Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. I am mechanically inclined more or less a backyard mechanic. However your videos are much more informative and straight to the point. And you give advice on how to make it easier and quicker. Your videos have helped me many times in the past few years. They are all much better then the rest you click on. For that I thank you for all the money you saved me and my friends for that matter. You truly are proof that working smarter not harder is the way to go. Your videos have helped me not work harder for a few years now so thank you. From my family to yours Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.

@ASEWorldClassTech 7 жыл бұрын

i use a water hose and back flush the heater core. The high flow and volume of the water hose doesn't blow up the heater core like compressed air might as it usually runs at 150psi... Then to go one step further if you park your car on some sort of hill to where the radiator cap/ Fill is the highest point of the engine then all of the coolants air pockets will come right out...